by Amber Kast​It is commonly said that the last people who can scientifically remember the events of September 9th, 2001, were in kindergarten class that day. Well, I was one of those students, and I remember the day quite vividly. We were let out of school early by sobbing, frantic teachers, and, in a rush of patriotism, my parents went out and bought a flag pole and their own Old Glory and erected them in our backyard. To my younger siblings, that was the day we got our flag pole. But to me and the rest of the world who remembers it, it’s a reminder of how anything could happen to anyone, anytime.

In remembrance of that event, the day it happened has been set aside as 9/11 Remembrance Day, which is, according to the National and Community Service website, a “culmination of efforts originally launched in 2002 by the nonprofit 9/11 Day with wide support by the 9/11 community and leading national service organizations.” This day was initially established in the inspiring tradition of engaging in charitable service on 9/11 as an annual and future tribute to “the victims, survivors, and those who rose up in service in response to the attack.” The website listed above has tons of information about how to register projects, get involved, and just information on the day and what happened.

A gorgeous memorial has been built to remember that day, and the date 9/11 will forever remain in American’s minds as one of a horrible attack on their country. But now, on this day, we take the time to come together and remember those who lost their lives, who saved others, who survived, and who joined the military in response to this devastating event.

For more information about this event and remembrance day, visit these websites and library resources: